BMW i4

BMW i4 in brief

The i4 has been in production since 2021 in Munich and is similar to the petrol and diesel 4 Series Gran Coupe in terms of body and interior. As a result, it looks and drives like a typical BMW: it sits low, handles precisely, and the boot lid opens with the rear window, making loading convenient.

Buyers appreciate the i4 for its driving comfort, quiet cabin and the fact that it's an electric car that doesn't look like an experiment. Downsides include less headroom in the rear than in taller electric SUVs, and the battery under the floor slightly raises the ride height.

Early i4 and the updated version — what's the difference

The first i4s (2021–2024) already had a curved screen with the iDrive 8 system and a heat pump. Initially, only the eDrive40 and M50 versions were offered, later joined by the more affordable eDrive35 and the all-wheel-drive xDrive40.

The 2024 i4 has been updated: the front and rear lights have been changed, the infotainment software and interior trim have been refreshed, and the M50 has been renamed to M50 xDrive. The technology remains essentially the same, so an early i4 with a good history often makes for a more sensible purchase than the updated model.

Generations, batteries and charging

eDrive40 — the most popular version with a single rear engine (around 340 hp) and the largest battery with a usable capacity of around 81 kWh. The eDrive35 has a smaller battery and a less powerful engine, while the xDrive40 and M50 feature dual engines and all-wheel drive, with the M50 boasting around 540 hp. According to the manufacturer's (WLTP) data, the eDrive40 can travel around 500–590 km, while other versions cover less.

In reality, especially on the motorway, the range is often lower, and in winter, you might need to count on about 20–30% less than in summer, and even more when driving short distances. The heat pump helps, but on cold mornings, energy is consumed to heat the cabin and the battery.

The i4 charges via a CCS2 connector: with alternating current at home or at a public charging station — usually up to 11 kW, and at fast-charging stations — up to around 200 kW (eDrive35 — slightly slower). Maximum power is achieved only when the battery is warm and not fully charged, so it's worth using the navigation system's battery pre-conditioning before a long journey.

What to check when buying a used BMW i4

The most important thing is the battery's condition. Ask for a battery health (SoH) report and charging history from a BMW service centre or diagnostic specialist, and while test-driving, monitor how the charge percentage drops. Compare the displayed range when the battery is fully charged with the data for a new car.

Test the charging: both with alternating current and at a fast-charging station, and ensure the charging cable is included. Check the brakes — they're used less in electric cars, so the discs can rust — and the tyres, as a heavy and powerful car wears them out faster.

Check if the software has been updated and if all ordered functions and assist systems are working. Check the history via the VIN: some i4s are imported from other countries, and after an incident, the condition of the electric car's battery and high-voltage system must be checked at a service centre.

Versions

The BMW i4 differs mainly in versions (engines and battery) and equipment packages; we list the versions most commonly found in Europe.

Comparison of BMW i4 versions

For most buyers, the best choice is the eDrive40: it offers the longest range and ample power. The xDrive40 is worth considering for its all-wheel drive, while the M50 is only if performance is paramount.

Frequently asked questions